ase； for the above reasons； the prince ought to favour one ofthe parties。Never let any Government imagine that it can choose perfectly safecourses； rather let it expect to have to take very doubtful ones；because it is found in ordinary affairs that one never seeks to avoidone trouble without running into another； but prudence consists inknowing how to distinguish the character of troubles； and for choice totake the lesser evil。A prince ought also to show himself a patron of ability； and to honourthe proficient in every art。 At the same time he should encourage hiscitizens to practise their callings peaceably； both in merce andagriculture； and in every other following； so that the one should not bedeterred from improving his possessions for fear lest they be taken awayfrom him or another from opening up trade for fear of taxes； but theprince ought to offer rewards to whoever wishes to do these things anddesigns in any way to honour his city or state。Further； he ought to entertain the people with festivals and spectaclesat convenient seasons of the year； and as every city is divided intoguilds or into societies； he ought to hold such bodies in esteem； andassociate with them sometimes； and show himself an example of courtesyand liberality； nevertheless； always maintaining the majesty of hisrank； for this he must never consent to abate in anything。CHAPTER XXIICONCERNING THE SECRETARIES OF PRINCESTHE choice of servants is of no little importance to a prince； and theyare good or not according to the discrimination of the prince。 And thefirst opinion which one forms of a prince； and of his understanding； isby observing the men he has around him； and when they are capable andfaithful he may always be considered wise； because he has known how torecognize the capable and to keep